Volunteers

Holly Phillips Malawi

What were your impressions of the accommodation?A lot better than I thought (had a bed, toilet, etc) but very basic.

Why did you want to volunteer? Because it’s a lot better than staying at home all summer & it was a massive eye opener. I also want to be a social worker so was good for the voluntary hours.

Do you feel you made a difference, how?
Yes, you give others hope through education as it’s their only way out of poverty.

hat did you do for fun?
We went out, explored and also played a lot with the Malawians.

When was your most enjoyable experience, do you have an interesting story?
Giving out gifts to the teachers and helpers, even stuff like a head torch. Was amazing to see how emotional they got.

Who did you make friends with and for what reasons?
All of the other volunteers as they are very friendly and supportive but also the Malawians because they show so much respect and are so happy to stop and say hello and also invite you to their house.

What were the names of the best places to hang out and socialise, why was this?Domino’s because it was ironic and also safaris because you get to relax and see the wildlife.

Would you considering going again or perhaps to another project with Original Volunteers? Please explain why.
Yes I’m spending my whole summer there next year because It’s so rewarding and you give so much to the people that you are helping.

What would you say/recommend to a friend who was interested in volunteering?
Take a lot of wet wipes and go in with an open mind. You’ll thrive if you let yourself go in it all.

Could you offer any tips to future volunteers?
Have fun with it all! 🙂